Rocket Pool (RPL) is a decentralized Ethereum staking pool that strives to provide a platform for ETH2 staking. It offers a unique approach to staking, allowing users to join the network with a decentralized node operator network or run their own nodes with only 16 ETH. Rocket Pool provides liquid staking, which means users participate in an increasing exchange rate rather than adding to their initial staked collateral. It also offers smart nodes, a custom node software that allows anyone to run a node on its network. This system is supported by the pool’s open-source and audited smart contracts, which aim to ensure fully non-custodial staking and a high degree of decentralization.

Rocket Pool operates on the principle of trustless staking of ETH to a network of decentralized autonomous nodes, underpinned by RPL collateral. It offers two ways of interaction: through rETH and Node Staking. rETH is a tokenized version of the staked ETH in Rocket Pool, which allows stakers to engage from 0.01 ETH to up to 32 ETH. By staking their Ether, users receive rETH in return, which automatically reflects the performance of the entire network of node operators. Node Staking, on the other hand, allows users to deposit 16 ETH and stake an additional 16 ETH on behalf of the protocol. Rocket Pool automatically adjusts its commission rate based on the supply and demand of node operators and available ETH.

Rocket Pool aims to make ETH2 staking accessible to anyone, regardless of their capital or level of technological sophistication. It can be used by individuals who want to participate in Ethereum staking but lack the technical skills or financial capacity to run a node or own 32 ETH. It can also be used by staking-as-a-service providers who aim to participate in the network by joining Rocket Pool and running a node. Furthermore, Rocket Pool's rETH token can be used by those who want to stake their Ether and participate in the performance of the entire network of node operators.

Rocket Pool was conceived in late 2016 by David Rugendyke, a senior developer with a computer science background. He was supported by General Manager Darren Langley, an executive with over 18 years of commercial experience in managing and mentoring development teams, designing application architecture, and delivering digital products for government and financial services. The team also includes three blockchain and Solidity engineers with a combined 40 years of experience. Rocket Pool has been live since October 2021 and has been successfully audited by three separate firms: Sigma Prime, Consensys Diligence, and Trail of Bits. It also runs a bug bounty program to incentivize keeping its protocol safe.